Lessons
PocketSign
PocketSign

How to Sign "Unable"

To sign *unable* (which is the same sign as *can't*), start with both hands in a "1" handshape, with your index fingers extended and other fingers curled. Hold your non-dominant hand in front of you, palm facing down and index finger pointing forward. Bring your dominant hand down from above, striking your dominant index finger against the tip of your non-dominant index finger. Continue the downward motion with your dominant hand, and shake your head slightly to emphasize the negative meaning.

Examples Using "Unable" in a Sentence

1

I am unable to go to the party.

Point to yourself for I, sign UNABLE, then GO, and finish with PARTY.

2

He is unable to work today.

Sign TODAY, point to the person for HE, sign UNABLE, and then WORK.

3

We are unable to help.

Sign WE by moving your index finger from your dominant shoulder to your non-dominant shoulder, then sign UNABLE, and finish with HELP.

How to Sign "Unable"
To sign *unable* (which is the same sign as *can't*), start with both hands in a "1" handshape, with your index fingers extended and other fingers curled. Hold your non-dominant hand in front of you, palm facing down and index finger pointing forward. Bring your dominant hand down from above, striking your dominant index finger against the tip of your non-dominant index finger. Continue the downward motion with your dominant hand, and shake your head slightly to emphasize the negative meaning.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The sign visually represents a barrier or an action being abruptly cut off. The dominant finger striking the non-dominant finger illustrates that a path or ability is blocked and cannot proceed.
Signing Tips
Make sure to use a firm, downward striking motion with your dominant hand to convey the finality of being unable to do something. Don't forget to shake your head, as facial expressions are a crucial part of ASL grammar for negative words like this one.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is stopping the dominant hand as soon as it touches the non-dominant finger. The dominant hand should strike the finger and continue moving downward in one fluid motion. Another mistake is forgetting the head shake, which is necessary for clarity.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Unable" in a Sentence
1

I am unable to go to the party.

Point to yourself for I, sign UNABLE, then GO, and finish with PARTY.

2

He is unable to work today.

Sign TODAY, point to the person for HE, sign UNABLE, and then WORK.

3

We are unable to help.

Sign WE by moving your index finger from your dominant shoulder to your non-dominant shoulder, then sign UNABLE, and finish with HELP.

Frequently Asked Questions
Is the sign for 'unable' the same as 'can't'?

Yes, in ASL, the concept of being unable to do something is signed using the exact same sign as 'can't'. The context of your sentence will make the exact English translation clear.

Do I have to shake my head when signing 'unable'?

Yes, shaking your head is an important non-manual marker in ASL. It reinforces the negative meaning of the sign and ensures your message is clearly understood.

Which hand should move when signing 'unable'?

Your non-dominant hand should stay stationary in front of you, while your dominant hand moves downward to strike it. Always use your dominant hand for the primary movement.

ASL is a beautiful, expressive language. Practice regularly and have fun!